There’s no question our devoted dads deserve the best this Father’s Day. But let’s be honest: We’d rather be spending time with our Pops in his (and our) happy place–out on the trail–rather than scouring the stores for another forgotten-tomorrow trinket. To make your shopping experience easier, here are five kits for Dad’s favorite outdoor pursuits, each from a single trusted name in the world of hiking, cycling, running, paddling, and après-everything. One-stop shopping is a beautiful thing.
The Fjällräven Hiking Kit
Rooted in founder Åke Nordin’s mantra, “We’ve been trekking for more than 50 years; I hope we never get there,” Fjällräven aims to make the outdoors accessible–and enjoyable–for everyone. The Swedish brand known for its namesake arctic fox logo does this through an emphasis on simple, practical hiking and backpacking gear that, we think anyways, looks pretty great too. For Dad, we recommend:
- Bergtagen Lite Eco-Shell Jacket, a minimalist rain layer featuring a stretchy, articulated fit and waterproof protection that’s still breathable. $375
- Keb Fleece Hoodie for the way it warms efficiently, wicks sweat effectively, and has reinforced G-1000 Eco in the high-wear area on the shoulders (Backpack? No problem). $195
- Bergtagen 30, a versatile, waterproof pack perfect for days in the backcountry–and it’s made with 100% recycled nylon. $200
The Pearl Izumi Biking Kit
Pearl Izumi is one of best-known names in cycling for a reason: They make quality gear. So confident are they in the durability of their products, they have a limited Lifetime Guarantee and offer free garment repair in house (which they’ve done since 1996). The Colorado-based brand also takes sustainability seriously. For Dad, we recommend:
- Rove Short, which is part of the Pedal to Zero campaign, and thus includes the number of miles necessary to ride, instead of driving a car, to zero out its carbon footprint. $90
- Midland Graphic T-Shirt, an 87% recycled polyester tee that’s ready for the trail and the post-ride libations. $45
- X-Alp Summit, a clip-in compatible mountain bike shoe featuring a well-ventilated leather upper, an easy-close Boa Fit System, and a reinforced toe box that stands up to the trail. $150
The Craft Sportswear Running Kit
Swedish brand Craft Sportswear is committed to innovation, design, and performance. That comes across clearly in their emphasis on sport-specific fit, the process of analyzing the ergonomics, technical fabrics, correct ventilating areas, and more to ensure the best-possible apparel for individual sports. For Dad, we recommend:
- CTM Ultra Carbon 2, a barely there road/trail runner with a tuned carbon plate for efficiency and energy return, a full-contact rubber outsole for durability and traction, and a knock-em-dead color palette. $250
- Pro Hypervent Running Tee, which features body-mapped mesh panels for breathability where he needs it. $60
- Pro Hypervent Running Pants for their enhanced ventilation, stylish tapering, and the fact that they’re made with 72% recycled material. $100
The Free Fly Fishing Kit
Founded in 2011, Free Fly focuses on creating simple, comfortable apparel that also performs well on the water. They’re known for using ultra-fine bamboo–what it considers to be the ultimate natural fiber–since it offers UV protection (without added chemicals), natural odor-resistance, and next-to-skin softness. For Dad, we recommend:
- Bamboo Lightweight Shore Hoody for its breathability and UPF 40+ protection (so much better than slathering on sunscreen). $68
- Swell Short, which dries quickly, moves easily (thanks to its 13% spandex composition), and offers 50+ UPF protection. $84
- Silver King Snapback Hat, a lightweight, simple-yet-stylish must-have for any day on the water. $30
The Cotopaxi Lifestyle Kit
As a certified B Corporation, Cotopaxi’s catchy “gear for good” logo isn’t just creative marketing speak; it’s a commitment written into the company’s founding documents. So in addition to making great outdoor gear, at least 1% of their revenue is distributed to humanitarian organizations like the International Rescue Committee and Mercy Corps through their nonprofit arm, the Cotopaxi Foundation. For Dad, we recommend:
- Teca Fleece Hooded Half-Zip Jacket, a cozy, colorful mid-layer made from 100% recycled polyester. $130
- Veza Adventure Pant, which has an elastic flat waistband and tapered silhouette perfect for walking the dog or coaching the rec league pee-wee soccer team. $89
- Electric Llama T-Shirt because there’s a multi-colored pack animal on this easy-wearing Saturday staple. $35
